Tom's Story
It is sometimes hard for Tom Vankuiken to remember just how sick he was in March 2018. Not only was he battling sepsis, a blood infection, but he also suffered a stroke. The road to recovery ahead of him meant that Tom would need acute rehabilitation in order to regain his independence. After being treated for his infection and stabilized from the stroke, Tom and his wife Ursula chose Honor Health Acute Rehabilitation Hospital for the next step in his journey. Tom and Ursula wanted the best care and HonorHealth’s Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)-accredited stroke program was an important factor. Tom’s primary goal was to return to his independent lifestyle and continue his volunteer work at Healing Hearts Animal Rescue & Refuge, a ranch dedicated to the rescue of domestic companion and farm animals that provides rehabilitation and a safe haven.
At HonorHealth Rehabilitation Hospital, a physician-led, multi-disciplinary team of nurses, therapists and aides worked to help Tom move confidently again. In physical therapy, he navigated through a series of obstacles designed to test his balance and practiced tasks such as getting in and out of a car. Occupational therapy helped Tom re-learn crucial tasks such as meal planning and balancing a checkbook.
While Tom was making physical strides in rehabilitation, he was struggling emotionally, missing the ranch and his horses. Tom’s rehabilitation team, who were aware of his mental state, worked with Ursula to bring horses to the hospital’s parking lot for a visit. As Tom fed carrots to his beloved Healing Heart horses in the sunshine, Tom’s mood lifted; the horses who he had helped save were now helping him. “It was the best medicine for him,” said Ursula.
After 15 days at HonorHealth Rehabilitation Hospital, Tom was ready to go home, grateful for the personalized care he received. In the time since he was discharged, the Marine Corps veteran says that he is “enjoying the retired life.” He and Ursula walk their dogs daily in addition to running and walking to stay in shape. Tom’s happiest moments are when he drives up to Healing Hearts in his truck. The horses know the sound of his truck and always walk close to the entrance of their stalls in anticipation of his friendly visits and apple treats.